Former Professional Squash Player and Penn Head Coach Joins Wendy Lawrence's Staff

Jim Masland is in his second season as assistant coach of the George Washington men's and women's squash teams on Dec. 15. Masland serves as an assistant coach and is responsible for on-court training, match preparation, recruiting and player development.

A former professional squash player with a bevy of coaching experience, Masland earned his bachelor's degree from Harvard University in 1990, his master's from Penn State in 1995, and his PhD from UCLA in 2008.

At Harvard he was a member of three consecutive national championship teams, serving as co-captain during his senior season.

Following graduation Masland pursued a professional playing career in both hardball and softball, appearing in numerous professional tournaments from 1990-93. His experience culminated in two invitations to try-out for the Pan-American team in both 1997 and 1999.

He also served as head coach of the University of Pennsylvania's men's squash team, leading the Quakers to 20 wins from 1996-99. During his time in Philadelphia, Masland was responsible for all facets of the program including recruiting, scheduling, facility renovations and alumni relations.

Masland returned to the classroom in 2000 to pursue his PhD at UCLA. During this time he served as a squash professional and instructor at Trifit Athletic Club in Santa Monica, Calif., and also taught more than 20 classes at UCLA as a lecturer and teaching assistant.